Finite Element Analysis is a widely used technique in many engineering disciplines. Implementing the principles of FEA through programming is crucial for a thorough understanding of the subject. In this book, the concepts of FEA and its programming is illustrated uniquely in a transparent manner using the math package MATHCAD. The details in programming, with solution at various intermediate stages, are discussed for numerous elements with fully functional codes. Programs in Microsoft Excel using VBA are also presented. The book provides many challenging problems and programming assignments.

• MATHCAD and Microsoft Excel programs to carry out FEA for various elements and examples discussed in the book can be downloaded from “http://narosa.com/books_display.asp?catgcode=978-81-7319-791-8”

Preface / List of Abbreviations and Symbols / What is FEA? / Basic Concepts in FEA / Basic Steps in FEA / Displacement Function Based Formulation / Shape Functions / Bar Elements / Truss Elements / Beam Elements / Frame Element / Strain-displacement Matrix for 2D and 3D Elements / Triangle Membrane Elements / Quadrilateral Membrane Elements / Axisymmetric Elements / Tetrahedron Elements / Prism Element / Hexahedron Element / Plate Elements / Composite Laminates / Dynamic Analysis / FEA of Partial Differential Equations / Appendix A: Methods for Solving a System of Equations / Appendix B: Methods for Solving Eigenvalue Problems / Appendix C: Programming Guide to MATHCAD 2001 / Appendix D: Unit Conversions / References / Subject Index.

Under- and Postgraduate Students in Mathematics, Under- and Postgraduate Students & Practitioners in Civil, Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering